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10 Cards in this Set
- Front
- Back
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To what virus family does hepatitis C belong?
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Flaviviridae. Spherical(40-60nm), enveloped, single stranded positive-sense RNA virus.
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How many different genotypes of HCV are there/
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Atleast 6 genotypes identified. With a rapid mutation rate, there appears to be ineffective long term neutralizing antibodies. Past infection does not confer immunity.
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How common is HCV infection?
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An estimated 4 million in the US and 170million worldwide(up to 22% in Egypt). Most have chronic infections and new acute HCV infections are uncommon.
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How is HCV transmitted?
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HCV was associated with 90% of transfusion related hepatitis prior to 1992 in the US and was referred to as non-A and non-B hepatitis. Since identification, transfusion related HCV has dramatically decreased and history of IV drugs use is the most common form of transmission. Sexual and perinatal transmission is also possible but significantly less likely.
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What are the chances of acquiring HCV through an accidental needlestick from a HCV infected patient?
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3%
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What percentage of acute HCV infections develops into chronic HCV infections?
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60-80%
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How is HCV diagnosed?
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Detection of antibodies to HCV polypeptides by anti-HCV-Elisa(90-95% sensitive) or direct detection of HCV RNA(gold standard)
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What are the common sequelae of HCV infection?
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Cirrhosis(20% after 20 years of HCV infection and hepatocellular carcinoma(1-4% per year in HCV cirrhotic patients)
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What are the treatments for both acute and chronic HCV infection?
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For both, the treatment of choice is interferon-alpha and ribavirin
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How can HCV be prevented?
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Avoid needlesticks, IV drugs and screen transfusion blood. There is no vaccine available for HCV.
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